Promising to reshape the world of motorsports and production models, Škoda Motorsport has rolled out a unique, all-electric concept car: the Enyaq RS Race. This sleek machine, drawing from Škoda’s rich racing heritage, might just be the answer. Completely track ready with a roll cage, rally-spec pedal box, hydraulic handbrake and 340 hp!
Johannes Neft, Škoda Auto Board Member for Technical Development, says: “The Škoda Enyaq RS Race was developed completely in-house by Škoda Motorsport. Based on the Enyaq Coupé vRS production model, the car features a distinctive design with strong racing DNA, enhanced aerodynamics and excellent acceleration. In terms of sustainable solutions, the new concept car also serves as a pilot project for future innovations in series production. The biocomposite parts have led to a significant weight reduction, and we are trialling them in motorsport, including in the current Škoda Fabia RS Rally2, with a view to future implementation.”
Under the Hood of the Enyaq RS Race Concept
Looking like something out of a 2024 sci-fi blockbuster, the Enyaq RS Race is a reimagined version of the Škoda Enyaq Coupé vRS. Flaunting a 72 mm wider front, 116 mm wider rear, and 70 mm lower stance, the concept takes a hefty 316 kg off the original Coupé, thanks to its innovative use of biocomposite parts.
But what’s cooking inside this high-tech beast? It retains the same powertrain as its production model sibling, boasts an 82 kWh battery, and delivers a combined output of 250 kW, though the lighter frame allows the Enyaq RS Race to accelerate from 0 to 62 mph in under five seconds. Meanwhile, a raft of technical upgrades, like a new high-performance braking system, racing seats, and a roll cage, bolster active and passive safety.
Not Just Fast, but Sustainable Too
Aside from its speedster credentials, the concept car encapsulates Škoda’s proactive approach towards sustainability. Biocomposite parts, developed alongside Škoda’s motorsport partner Bcomp, feature prominently across the body and interior of the Enyaq RS Race. This includes flax fibres – an innovative alternative to carbon, which cuts down on CO2 emissions by a staggering 85%.
Additionally, the Enyaq RS Race uses AmpliTex, a reinforcement fabric made from renewable flax fibres, woven to decrease vibrations, reduce weight and serve as a visually alluring design element. Bcomp’s PowerRibs™ technology also employs flax fibres, providing a rigid structure to reinforce the vehicle’s thin-walled panels.
Race-Ready with Room to Improve
Although Škoda Motorsport has clearly put a lot of thought into the Enyaq RS Race, it isn’t without its potential drawbacks. Further real-world testing under racing conditions could reveal performance issues or limitations in the use of sustainable materials. And let’s not forget the elephant in the room: electric vehicle infrastructure. Fast and efficient charging solutions will need considerable advancement to truly accommodate the rise of electric race cars.
Regardless, with its visionary blend of technology, sustainability and performance, the Enyaq RS Race is undoubtedly a thrilling sneak peek into Škoda’s plans for the electrified future of racing and production models. As we gear up for the next phase of electric vehicles, this innovative concept car is a definite contender in the race to a greener, cleaner future.
